Dog breed · Working
Akita
A powerful, quiet guardian from northern Japan, deeply devoted to family and aloof with everyone else.
Large10–13 yearsJapanNeeds more space
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Working
- Origin
- Japan
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 32–59 kg (70–130 lb)
- Height
- 61–71 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–13 years
- Coat
- Thick double coat
- Temperament
- DignifiedReservedLoyalStrong-willed
History
Bred in Akita Prefecture to hunt bear and boar; the loyal Hachikō made the breed world-famous.
Appearance
Heavy-boned with a bear-like head, curled tail and plush coat.
Exercise and activity
An hour daily of calm, structured walking and training.
Care and grooming
Brush weekly and daily during the two enormous annual moults.
Health considerations
- Hip dysplasia
- Autoimmune conditions
- Sebaceous adenitis
- Hypothyroidism
- Gastric torsion
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Akita
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: An hour daily of calm, structured walking and training. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Hip dysplasia, Autoimmune conditions, Sebaceous adenitis, Hypothyroidism, Gastric torsion), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice